Lighting device with cavity for removably attaching to a tool

ABSTRACT

A cordless light attachment for a tool includes a housing that has a proximal end and a distal end, and an interior cavity that extends from the proximal end to the distal end, forming an opening extending through the housing from the proximal end to the distal end. The device receives therein a tool and removably attaches to the tool. The device has at least one light source powered by a cordless power source arranged on or within the housing.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The patent application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. applicationSer. No. 14/242,819, which is entitled “Lighting Device for Attachmentto a Tool” and was filed Apr. 1, 2014, and claims benefit under 35U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 61/853,232,filed Apr. 1, 2013, titled “Operative Instrument Light Attachment,” allof which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference as part of thepresent disclosure.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a lighting device. More particularly,the invention relates to a wireless lighting device that is attachableto a tool or object.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A lighting device is used to allow an operator to illuminate, and thusmore precisely control and enhance, a space or area with a lighted fieldof view. In many situations, a lighting device can be used to illuminatea closed or confined space that would not regularly receive an adequateamount of light, if at all. Existing lighting devices are connectable toa variety of tools, including, for example, medical devices andscrewdrivers, to illuminate the area in which the device or tool is tobe used. Such lighting devices and light sources include attachmentsthat have an electrical cord extending therefrom that in turn isconnectable to a power source, attachments that are battery powered, andlight sources integrally formed within a tool to direct light on aspecific field of view.

In medical practice, lighting devices are used to direct light at aspecific area being operated on or examined. For example, lightingdevices can be used in conjunction with electrosurgical handhelddevices, such as a BOVIE® pen used to incise through tissues, and avariety of other operative instruments, such as retractors and forceps.Lighted retractors are commonly used during surgeries to help illuminatethe surgical field.

The inventor has discerned a number of disadvantages of previously knownlighting devices. For example, known lighting devices that include alight source integrally formed therein are generally expensive, bulky,and can cause injury. Known cordless and corded lighting devices addsignificant bulk to a tool preventing a user from manipulating the toolwith the precision required in many situations and being able to extendthe tool into tight spaces. Additionally, many lighting device,especially corded lighting devices, require constant repositioning, arecumbersome, are assistant-dependent to hold or re-position, and can bedisruptive to a surgical field. Further, corded lighting devices as wellas light sources integrally formed within a tool can become hot, burnthe user and/or the patient, and possibly even cause a fire. Headlightscan be used as an alternative to a lighting device. However, similar tolighting devices, headlights are bulky, commonly require cables toconnect to a power source, require constant readjustment, and can pose apotential safety hazard. Moreover, being worn on the head, they are at adistance from the surgical field, decreasing their effectiveness, andcan be cumbersome to the user, and cause fatigue if worn for an extendedperiod of time.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to overcome one ormore of the above-described drawbacks and/or disadvantages of the priorart.

The present invention relates to a cordless lighting device that isattachable to a tool or object to illuminate a field of view. Inconfigurations where the device slides onto and over the end of a tool,it provides a minimized profile as compared to previously known devicesand a more symmetric field of illumination. The device is securelyretained on the tool during use but can be removed. The lighting devicein certain embodiments can be automatically activated upon attachment tothe tool or object and deactivated upon disengagement from the tool ordevice.

In certain embodiments, the lighting device has a housing having aproximal end and a distal end with a substantially tapered or conicalinterior cavity extending from the proximal end to the distal end andforming an opening extending through the housing from the proximal endto the distal end. One or more lights at the distal end of the housingilluminate a field of view. An on-board power source in the device, suchas, for example, a battery, powers the light(s). The device removablyattaches to a tapered or conical portion of a tool. The cavity is shapedand configured so that it receives and attaches to a certain portion ofthe tool. In such manner, the location of the lighting device can beselected where most advantageous. For example, in the case of a surgicaltool, the device can be located close to the cutting portion of thetool, so that it is as close as possible to the surgical site andprovides as good, e.g., direct, illumination as possible.

In certain embodiments, the lighting device includes a housing that hasa proximal end and a distal end and an interior cavity that forms anopening extending through the housing from the proximal end to thedistal end. One or more lights at the distal end of the housingilluminate a field of view. An on-board power source in the device, suchas, for example, a battery, powers the light(s). The device removablyattaches to the tool by one or more self-locking protrusions that extendat a forward angle (toward the distal end) into the cavity. Uponinstallation of the device on the tool, e.g., in a direction from distalend of the tool toward the proximal end of the tool, the protrusion(s)may flex forward and/or upward to allow relative sliding motion betweenthe device and the tool. However, upon attempted movement of the devicein the direction of the distal end of the tool, due to the forward angleof the protrusion(s), the protrusion(s) will be pulled by engagementwith the tool into a proximal and/or downward direction. This willcreate a wedging effect and/or increase the force of the protrusion(s)against the surface of the tool, increasing the force holding the deviceon the tool. This mitigates the chances of the device unintentionallydetaching from the tool.

In some embodiments, the lighting device has a split collar portion atthe distal and/or proximal end. The slit on the collar permits thelighting device to expand to accommodate the tool in the cavity. In suchmanner, the device can be installed upon different size tools. Thespring force in the material of the split collar applies compressionforce on the shaft to help secure the device to the tool, e.g.,frictionally.

Some tools have multiple inter-fitting pieces in which a first part,such as a blade, are insertably attachable into a second part of thetool, such as a handle. In some embodiments of the lighted device, thesecond part of the tool or handle is received within the cavity of thedevice, and the first tool part, e.g., blade, can be inserted andsecured into the second part. In some such tools, the first part has acollar extending radially outwardly that in normal use abuts against theend of the tool. In some embodiments of the lighted device, the distalend has a contact portion or flange having an inner diameter that issmaller than the outer diameter of the blade collar. Uponinsertion/securing of the tool first part into the second part, thecollar contacts or abuts against the contact portion of the device,securing the device to the tool and helping to prevent the device fromunintentionally disengaging from the tool.

In certain embodiments, the lighting device automatically illuminateswhen installed on the tool and/or de-illuminates upon removal from thetool. For example, some embodiments have a first plate within thehousing toward a distal end having electronic components affixed thereonin electrical communication with the lights, and a second plate withinthe housing toward a proximal end of the housing with electroniccomponents thereon. The first plate, second plate, and power source canform a complete electrical circuit delivering power to the lights, andthus creating illumination. In the uninstalled position, the electricalcircuit with the power source, e.g., a battery is not complete and thelights are not illuminated. When the device is installed on the tool,the electrical circuit is completed and illuminates the lights. When thedevice is uninstalled from the tool, the circuit is again opened and thelights de-illuminated.

One advantage of the invention is that the lighting device is morecompact than previous devices. Another advantage is that the lightingdevice is easily attachable to a tool and detachable from the tool. Yetanother advantage is that the lighting device can simultaneously attachto a tool and illuminates a light source ensuring efficient and easyassembly and use. A further advantage is that the lighting device issecurable to the tool at or over a desired portion of the tool. Theseand other objects and advantages of the present invention, and/or of thecurrently preferred embodiments thereof, will become more readilyapparent in view of the following detailed description and accompanyingdrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is the front perspective view of a lighting device positioned ona tool with a shaft of the tool extending through the lighting device;

FIG. 2 is a right side view of the lighting device of FIG. 1 connectedto the tool;

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the lighting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the lighting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is right side view of the lighting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a front view of the lighting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is rear view of the lighting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a rear perspective cross-sectional view of the lighting deviceof FIG. 1 taken along line A-A of FIG. 4;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the lighting device of FIG. 1 takenalong line B-B of FIG. 6;

FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the lighting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a rear perspective cross-sectional view of the outer housingof the lighting device of FIG. 1 taken along line C-C of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of the inner frame that is receivedwithin the outer housing of the lighting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of the first plate of the lightingdevice of FIG. 1 with the light source arranged thereon;

FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of the second plate of the lightingdevice of FIG. 1;

FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view of the second plate of the lightingdevice of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is side view of the assembly of the first plate, the secondplate and a power source disposed between the plates of the lightingdevice of FIG. 1;

FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a lightingdevice that is secured to the tool by a shoulder extending about theperiphery of a shaft of a tool;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of feature of yet another embodiment of alighting device that includes a split collar; and

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a lighting devicethat includes projections extending inwardly from a sleeve to removablysecure the device to a tool.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of theinvention are shown. The invention may, however, be embodied in manydifferent forms and should not be construed as limited to theembodiments set forth herein. Like numbers refer to like elementsthroughout.

As shown in an embodiment in FIGS. 1 and 2, a cordless lighting device,indicated generally by the reference numeral 10, is installed onto andover a portion of a distal end of the tool 12 and is removably thereto.A shaft 14 of the tool 12 can subsequently extend through an openingextending from a proximal end to a distal end of the lighting device 10so that the device 10 surrounds the tool 12. In the illustratedembodiment, the tool 12 is a BOVIE® pen, and the shaft 14 the blade ofthe BOVIE® pen. However, the present invention may be installed uponvarious different types of tools, both surgical and non-surgical, ofvarious shapes and dimensions. As should be understood by those ofordinary skill in the art in accord with the detailed descriptionherein, the dimension and shape of the light device 10 and its variousfeatures can be altered to accommodate and install on the desired tool.

In general, once the lighting device 10 is frictionally engaged to apredetermined position on a tool 12, a directed stream of lightautomatically projects from the device 10. The lighting device 10 can beturned off and disengaged from the tool 12 by applying an axial force atthe proximal end of the light attachment 10, which in turn disengagesthe lighting device 10 from the tool 12. In an embodiment, the lightingdevice can alternatively include an on/off switch or button to controlthe operability of the light source.

FIGS. 3-7 illustrate various views and features of the lighting device10. As will be described in more detail below, the lighting device 10generally includes a housing 16, at least one light source 18, a firstplate 20, a frame 22, a second plate 24, a sleeve 26 and a power source28.

As shown in FIGS. 3-7 and 10, the housing 16 includes a first housingelement 30 and a second housing element 32 that is receivable within thefirst housing element 30 or otherwise connectable with the first housingelement 30 to form the housing 16. In some embodiments, the firsthousing element 30 and a second housing element 32 form a substantiallyfluid tight seal when connected so as to protect the internal componentsfrom fluid incursion into the housing 16. Although the housing 18includes two housing elements 30, 32 in the embodiment shown, thehousing 18 can readily be made of a single unitary element in place ofthe two independent elements.

The first housing element 30 includes an opening 34 extending from aproximal end to a distal end so as to define an internal cavity, aplurality of projections 36 that project outwardly about an outerperiphery of the first housing element 30, and a recess 38 extendinginwardly at a distal end of the housing 16 toward the proximal end. Thelight source 18 is located in the recess 38. Thus, the recess 38protects the light source 18 from contact with external surfaces.Conversely, the recess 38 helps limit or prevent the light source 18from contacting external surfaces, such as tissue, that might be damagedby direct contact with the light source 18. The recess 38 also aids indirecting the light source 18 toward a particular space beingilluminated. In some embodiments, surfaces of the recess 38 can be madeof or coated with a reflective material, and in combination with theshape of the recess, as those of ordinary skill in the art shouldappreciate, redirect light emanating from the light source 18 to furtherdirect or control the illumination.

In some embodiments, the light source 18 includes a plurality of LEDlights arranged about the periphery of the distal end of the firsthousing element 30. The LED lights can produce white light or UV lightto illuminate, for example, UV-luminescing dyes or materials. As shownin FIGS. 3, 5, 9, 10, 13 and 16, two LED lights are used. The two LEDlights ensure that the lighting device 10 is capable of directing enoughlight toward a particular space to illuminate the area with a reasonablepower consumption, while maintaining a streamline profile of the device10 to ensure a user's view is not blocked, limiting weight and cost ofthe lighting device. However, as will be recognized by a person ofordinary skill in the art, any number of lights can be used depending onthe need of the user, and any light source that is known or may becomeknown can be used in place of the LED lights, such as photoluminescence,chemoluminescence, electroluminescence, snap sticks, and glow stick.Further, as seen in the figures, the lights 18 are substantially evenlyangularly spaced in the device 10. This helps to more evenly distributelight. However, the invention contemplates any suitable arrangement oflights 18.

The device 10 can be removably attachable to a tool 12 or object usingvarious attachment mechanisms. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 8 and11, the lighting device 10 can include a plurality of protrusions 40that are arranged in recesses 42 formed in the housing 16 to removablyattaching the lighting device 10 to a tool 14. The protrusions 40 arefixed within the recesses 42 by angled stops 43 that provide africtional contact with the protrusions 40 by extending inwardly at anangle within the recesses 42 from the inner periphery of the housing 16.The protrusions 40 are also fixed within the recesses 42 by projections44 that extend from the second housing element 32 and are contactablewith the protrusions 40. In the shown embodiment, the protrusions 40 areoriented at a forward angle toward the distal end of the device 10. Theycan be spring-loaded. The protrusions 40 include a first limb 46, asecond limb 48 extending from the first limb 46 at a forward angle, anda tang 50 extending from the second limb 48 at a lesser forward angle.The protrusion 40 and the tang 50 is arranged and configured to contactthe outer surface of the tool 12 when the device 10 is installed ontothe tool 12.

The contact between the tangs 50 and the tool 12 maintains the device 10positioned on the tool 12. Contact between a tang 50 and the outersurface of the tool 12 creates friction that helps prevent relativesliding movement between the device 10 and tool 12. The amount offriction depends in part on the force the tang 50 asserts against thetool 12. The force depends upon the degree of interference between thetool 12 and tang 50, and the spring characteristics of the protrusions40. As to the former, the greater the interference, that is, the degreethe outer surface of the tool 12 is larger than the space between thetangs 50 in their non-compressed state, the more the tool surface willcompress the protrusions 40, e.g., outwardly in the embodiment seen inFIG. 8, and the greater the opposing spring force on the tool 12. Withrespect to the latter, the spring characteristics of the protrusion 40depend upon the spring characteristics of the material out of which theprotrusion 40 is made, and the configuration of the protrusion 40itself. As seen in FIG. 8, the second limb 48 acts as a lever arm withrespect to the first limb 46. The effective spring rate of theprotrusion decreases with increasing length and forward angle of thesecond limb 48.

As should be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, then,the amount of friction can be controlled, in part, by configuring theprotrusion 40 and selecting the material of which the protrusion 40 ismade. Accordingly, the frictional retaining force on the device 10 canbe made sufficient to prevent the device 10 from unintended removal fromthe tool 12 under the expected operating conditions. The protrusion 40can thus be manufactured out of metal, plastic, carbon fiber, or anyother suitable material that is known or will become known.

The frictional force is also dependent, in part, upon the frictionalcoefficient of the material of the tang 50 that contacts the tool 12.For example, if a high frictional force is desired, the tang could bemade of a relative high friction material, such as rubber or otherelastomeric material, or include a sleeve, end cap, or coating on orover the contact surface of the tang to provide the desired friction andgripping force. For example, if the protrusion 40 is made from metal orplastic, this may impart strength and overall desired spring rates forthe protrusion 40, but provides a low friction contact surface with thetool. The tang 50 may be coated or otherwise include a material, e.g.,rubber, having a higher friction coefficient to provide the desiredfrictional characteristics.

Where the outer surface of the tool 12 is made of a relatively softermaterial, and the tang 50 is made of a sufficiently hard material orsharpened structure, e.g., has a sharp edge, the tang 50 may to acertain degree deform the outer surface of the tool 12, e.g., “dig into”it, so as to further secure the device 10 in addition to a merelyfrictional engagement. The inventor has found that even a small amountof deformation, in many cases not enough to adversely damage the tool12, significantly increases the retention of the device 10.

In the embodiment shown, the forward angle of the second limb 48provides self-locking or wedging effect against disengagement of thedevice 10 from the tool 12, while not overly inhibiting installation. Asbest seen in FIG. 8, when the device 10 is inserted onto the tool 12(or, conversely, the tool 12 is inserted through the cavity/opening inthe device 10), when the outer surface of the tool 12 contacts the tangs50, it imparts a force on the tangs 50, and thus the protrusions 40, ina distal direction. This biases the protrusions 40 forwardly (distally)and outwardly, such that the retaining force on the tool 12 ismoderated. On the other hand, when attempting to move the parts in theopposite direction (in FIG. 8, the tool 12 relatively to the right andthe device 10 relatively to the left), contact between the tool 12surface and the tang 50 imparts a proximal (rearward) force on the tangs50 and thus the protrusions 40. This biases the protrusions backwardly(proximally) and inwardly, increasing the force of the protrusions 40 onthe tool 12, e.g., wedging the protrusions 40 against the tool 12, andincreasing the retention of the device 10 on the tool 50. This actionassists in preventing unintentional disengagement of the tool 12 anddevice 10.

As seen in the illustrated embodiment, particularly in FIGS. 8 and 9,the sleeve 26 is received within the frame 22 and the frame 22 isreceived within the housing 16. The sleeve 26 includes a flange 62extending outwardly at a proximal end and a chamfered distal end surface64. The chamfered surface 64 abuts or is near the second limb 48 of theprotrusion. To disengage the lighting device 10 from the tool 12, oneapplies a force to the flange 62 in the distal direction, which causesthe sleeve 26 to flex or move axially toward the distal end of the lightattachment 10. The chamfered surfaces 64 contact the second limb 48, andact as a wedge or ramp against the second limb 48. This imparts both aforward (distal) and radially outward force on the second limb 48, thatdeflects the second limb 48, e.g., out of engagement with the tool 12,and/or prevents the above-described wedging action on the protrusion 40during removal. The device 10 can then be disengaged from the tool 12.In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve 26 and flange 62 extendoutwardly past (proximally) the housing 16, and forms the proximal endof the device 10. Thus, to disengage the device 10 from the tool 12, theuser engages the rear (proximal) end of the device, e.g., the flange,and moves the device 10 distally (forwardly). Where the shaft 14 is toolarge for the device 10 to be removed with the shaft 14 in place in thetool 12, the shaft 14 is removed from the tool 12 so as to allow thedevice 10 to be removed.

In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve 26 is tapered having asubstantially conical or tapered shape to extend over the distal end ofa tool 14 having a substantially conical or tapered shape. However, aswill be recognized by a person of ordinary skill in the art, the sleeve26 can take the form of any known shape to accommodate a shape of thetool 14 on which the sleeve 26 is to be arranged. For example, if thetool 14 is cylindrical or the device 10 is to be attached to the shaft14 of the tool 12 that is cylindrical instead of a distal end of thetool 14, the sleeve 26 can be cylindrical to substantially match thecontour of the tool 12 and/or shaft 14.

Those of ordinary skill in the art should recognize that although theillustrated embodiment utilizes angled spring-loaded protrusions 40, theprotrusions 40 can take on a number of structural configurations whilestill ensuring a sufficient gripping force such that the attachment 10will not become detected without manual force applied to the sleeve 26.For example, in some embodiments, the protrusions 40 are notspring-loaded but relatively rigid and plastically deformable. In suchembodiments, the protrusions 40 may be plastically deformed when thedevice 10 is installed on the tool 12 and/or when the device 10 isremoved from the tool 12. As a result, because a certain level of forceon the protrusions 40 is required to deform them, the device 10 will notunintentionally disengage from the tool 12, but generally only when anintentional level of disengaging force is exerted on the device 10. Inyet other embodiments, the protrusions 40 are breakable or separablefrom the housing 16 upon exertion of a certain level of disengagementforce on the device 10 (and thus the protrusions 40). Once broken orseparated, the protrusions 40 do not hold the device 10 on the tool 12.It should be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that theprotrusions 40 may be provided with a selected level of disengagementforce, e.g., the force at which the protrusions 40 will sufficientlydeform, break or separate to allow the device 10 to disengage from thetool 12. As one example, the protrusions 40 may include a weakenedportion or area at which the protrusion 40 is designed to deform, breakor separate at a determinable and/or selectable force.

Additionally, other attachment mechanisms and/or biasing members may beused in place of the protrusions 40. Examples include, but are notlimited to, adhesives, latches, snaps or cinch ties or fasteners, crankfasteners, rings, eyelets or any other technology that is known or maybecome known. When the tool 12 contains material that is capable ofbeing attracted to a magnetic material e.g., a ferrous material, thedevice 10 can in addition or alternatively include components that aremagnetic. In this manner, the device 10 can be secured to the tool 12,at least in part, magnetically.

FIG. 10 is an exploded view of an embodiment of the lighting device 10illustrating the components that comprise the lighting device 10 andtheir arrangement within the housing 16.

As shown in FIGS. 10 and 16, the power source 28 can include a batteryor batteries. The batteries 28 shown in FIGS. 10 and 16 are pin-typebatteries, which allow for generally longitudinal orientation(proximal-distal) and a minimized radial profile (diameter) of thelighting device 10. However, any other type of power source, includingsolar power or capacitors, that is known or may become known can be usedin place of batteries. Additionally, other types of batteries can beused in place of the pin-type batteries, such as, for example,strip-style batteries, coin batteries and cloth batteries. Further, thebatteries can be for a single use or rechargeable. Single use ordisposable batteries can include alkaline, carbon-zinc, lithium,silver-zinc, and zinc air. The pin-type battery 28 shown in FIGS. 10 and16 is a single-use lithium battery. Such a pin-type battery produces ahigh density of energy (e.g., 800 Wh/l), can be used under a wide rangeof temperatures (e.g., −20° C. to approximately about 60° C.), can storeenergy for over two years, has a low discharge rate (e.g., less than1%/year), is leak resistant, reliable, and is an eco-friendly productthat is free of heavy metals.

FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the firsthousing element 30 taken along line C-C from FIG. 10. As discussedabove, the first housing element 30 can include projections 36 thatproject outwardly therefrom to accommodate the profile of the batteries28, recesses 42 formed within the first housing element 30 to receivethe projections 40, and openings 34, 58, 60 formed in a wall 56 near thedistal end of the housing 16. The first housing element 30 can furtherinclude a plurality of projections 66 extending inwardly to aid inconnecting the housing 16 to the frame 22 and O-rings 68 or otherelastomeric means can be arranged within the openings of the housing toprotect against ingress of contaminants or fluids.

As seen best in FIGS. 9 and 10, the first plate 20 is arranged withinthe housing 16 between a wall 56 near the distal end of the housing 16and the frame 22, and the light sources 18 project outwardly throughopenings 58, 60 in the wall 56 of the housing 16. The second plate 24 isarranged within the housing 16 near a proximal end of the housing 16.

FIG. 13 shows an embodiment of the first plate 20 having an opening 76therein for receiving therethrough a shaft 14 of a tool 12 and lightsources 18 extending through a plurality of openings 78, 80, 82, 84extending through the plate 20 about the periphery of the plate 20. Thelight source 18 include prongs 86, 88 that extend through openings 78,80, 82, 84 in the first plate 20 and are contactable with the pluralityof electric circuits 90, 92, 94 that are affixed to the first plate 20or formed therein.

FIGS. 14 and 15 show, respectively, front and rear perspective views ofthe second plate 24. The second plate 24 includes a plurality ofelectric circuits 96, 98, 99 that are affixed to the first plate 24 orformed therein, a plurality of openings 100, 102, 104, 106 extendingthrough the circuits 96, 98 and second plate 24, a plurality ofcompression springs 108 affixed to the circuits 96, 98, 99 on a firstside of the second plate 24 at the openings 100, 102, 104, 106 extendingthrough the plate 24. Although compression springs 108 are shown in theembodiment, other biasing mechanisms that are known or may become knowncan alternatively be used.

As can be seen well in FIG. 16, a plurality of power sources 28 extendbetween the first plate 20 and the second plate 26 and the terminals 110of the power source 28 extend through the openings 100, 102, 104, 106 inthe second plate 26. After assembly, the terminals 110 can be solderedto the second side of the second plate 26 to fix the power sources 28 inplace. The compression springs 108 form a contact with the conductiveouter shell of the power source 28, which can be, for example aluminumor steel, in a compressed state. The restorative spring force in thecompressing springs 108 help maintain contact with the shell of thepower source 28. As can also be seen in FIG. 16, the radially-inwardterminals 86, 88 of the light sources 18 are not in electricalcommunication with each other. Thus, no complete or closed circuit isformed, and no power flows to the light sources 18.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the frame 22. Theframe 22 includes a plurality of bellows 70 that extend from a distalend of the frame 22, and a conductive ring or plate 72 made of anysuitable conductive material, e.g., conductive metal, is affixed to thedistal end of the frame 22 or molded therein. At least the bellows 70 ofthe frame 22 are made from an elastomeric material allowing the frame 22and/or bellows 70 to expand (lengthen) and contract (shorten). Althoughthe frame 22 is made at least in part from an elastomeric material, theframe 22 can be made from any other material that allows at least thebellows 70 to expand and contract. The frame 22 can thus be made from acombination of materials or a single elastomeric material.

Gaps extend about the circumference of the distal end of the frame 22,between the bellows 70 for clearance purposes and interaction with otherelements of the device 10. The frame 22 also includes a plurality ofprojections 74 that extend radially inwardly and outwardly to connectthe frame 22 to the housing 16 and the sleeve 26 to connect the frame 22to other elements of the light attachment 10. Further, although theframe 22 and the sleeve 26 are shown in FIG. 10 as two independentelements, the frame 22 and the sleeve 26 can be formed as a singleunitary element.

In an initial state prior to installation of the device 10 on the tool12, as best seen in FIG. 9, the bellows 70 are in a natural conditionsufficiently compressed so that conductive ring 72 is not in contactwith, e.g., gapped from, the first plate 20. Because the radially-inwardterminals 86, 88 of the light sources 18 are not in electricalcommunication with each other, the electrical circuit (as seen in FIG.16) is open and the light sources are not illuminated. The bellows 70have a bellows ring 70 a (as seen, e.g., in FIG. 10) defining an openingthrough which the tool 12 extends upon installation of the device 10 onthe tool 12.

During the assembly of the light attachment 10 on the tool 12, thebellows 70 are expanded axially. Once the device 10 is placed over aselected portion of the distal end of the tool 12, it engages the tool12. During engagement, friction between the tool 12 and the frame 22,e.g., the bellows ring 70 a causes the distal end of the frame 22, e.g.,the bellows 70, to expand, i.e., lengthen, relative to the othercomponents of the device 10. In particular, the conductive ring 72 movesdistally relative to the first plate 20 until it contacts the firstplate 20. More specifically, the conductive ring contacts theradially-inward prongs 86, 88 of the light sources 18, placing them inelectrical communication with each other. This completes and closes theelectrical circuit with the power source 28, electricity is deliveredthe light sources 18, and the light sources 18 illuminate.

During removal of the device 10 from the tool 12, a reverse action turnsthe light source 18 off. During removal, the frictional forces on theframe 22 and bellows 70 is in the opposite direction than duringinstallation. These forces, and also the restorative spring force storedin the bellows 70 due to their extension during installation, cause theframe 22, e.g., the bellows 70, to contract, which moves the conductiveplate 72 in a direction proximally relative to other components of thedevice 10. The conductive plate 72 thus separates from the first plate20, and the radially-inward prongs 86, 88, as the bellows 70 contract orcompress toward the position shown in FIG. 9. The prong 86, 88 areremoved from electrical communication with each other, which opens thecircuit. Thus, the light source 18 is no longer illuminated when thelighting device 10 is not attached to the tool 14.

It should be noted that the above configuration is but one way the lightsource 18 can be turned on and/or off. The invention contemplates anysuitable way to accomplish this, either currently known or laterdiscovered. By way of example only, the lighting device 10 can include aswitch or button that the user manually operates to turn the device 10on and off.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 17 shows an alternative cordless lighteddevice 100 that is retained on the tool 112 by the tool itself. The tool112 has a proximal end and a distal end. The tool 112 has an opening atthe distal end to receive the shaft 114, e.g., a blade. The shaft 114 isinsertable into and retained by the body of the tool 112 in a knownmanner. In this example, the shaft 114 has collar, rim or shoulder 115configured to seat against the distal end of the tool 112 when inserted.

The features of the lighted tool 100 are substantially the same as thoseof lighting device 10 except where indicated. For example, the device100, similar to the lighted device 10, has a housing 116, and at leastone light source 118 powered by a cordless power source, and receivesthe tool through an opening or cavity extending from the proximal end tothe distal end of the device 100. The cavity is shaped and configured sothat the device 110 encompasses, e.g., is attachable to, a predeterminedportion of the tool 112. As illustrated, the device 110 is configured toengage upon the distal end of the tool 112. In this manner, the lightsource 118 is located as close to the shaft 114 as possible, e.g., closeto the operating site, without interfering with the functioning of thetool 112.

As can be seen in FIG. 17, the housing 116 includes a protrusion 117extending from the distal end and around the through opening in thedevice. The protrusion 117 forms a rim 119 at its distal end. The innerdiameter of the protrusion 117 and the rim 119 is large enough to permitthe shaft 114 to be inserted into and mounted to the distal end of thetool, but smaller than the outer diameter of the collar 115 of theshaft. Accordingly, after the shaft 114 is inserted into the tool, thedimensional interference between the collar 115 and the rim 119 preventsthe device 100 from being removed off from the distal end of the tool112. The shaft 114, and more specifically the shoulder 115, secures thedevice 110 to the tool. Where the shaft 144 can be removed from the tool112, the device 110 can then be removed from the tool in a similarmanner as described above with respect to the lighting device 10.

An alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 18 shows an alternate manner ofretaining a lighting device 300 on a tool. The features of the lightingdevice 300 are substantially the same as those shown in the embodimentsof the lighting devices 10 and 100 except where indicated. The device300 includes a housing 301 that includes split collar 302 with a slit303 extending longitudinally partway through extending from the proximalend of the device 300 part way toward the distal end of the device 300.In this embodiment, the housing 301 is made of an at least slightlyflexible or spring-like material. The cavity or opening of the device300 is smaller than the outer surface of the tool. When the device 300is installed on the tool, the dimensional interference between the tooland the cavity of the device 300 causes the slit to spread or expand dueto the flexibility of the material of the housing 301. Thus, the cavityor opening will expand to accommodate the outer surface of the tool.

At the same time, the restorative spring-like force stored in thedeflected material of the housing 301 will impose an opposingcompressive force against the outer surface of the tool, providing agripping and/or frictional force on the tool. This force will helpmaintain the device 300 attached to the tool. As those of ordinary skillin the art should appreciate, the retention force can be selected asdesired or suitable. For example, the force can be selected byselecting, among other things as will be understood by those of ordinaryskill in the art, the material of the housing in order to have aselected material flexibility, the amount of dimensional interferencebetween the tool and the cavity of the device 300, which determines theamount of flexing or deflection necessary to install the device 300 onthe tool, and the shape, size and configuration of the slot 301, whicheffects the overall flexibility of the housing 301.

Another embodiment shown in FIG. 19 depicts a further alternativeconfiguration for securing a lighting device 400 to a tool. The featuresof the lighting device 400 are substantially the same as those shown inthe embodiments of the lighting devices 10, 100 and 300 except whereindicated. In this embodiment, the sleeve 426 includes a plurality ofprojections 427 extending from the inner peripheral surface of thesleeve 426 radially inwardly into the cavity of the device into whichthe tool is received. The projections 427 are flexible, compressibleand/or elastomeric. The distance the projections 427 extend into thecavity is selected to provide a dimensional interference between theprojections 427 and the outer surface of the tool. When the tool isinserted into the cavity, the projections are flexed or compressed toaccommodate the tool. In turn, the restorative spring force in thecompressed/flexed projections 427 asserts an opposing inwardly directedcompressive force against the outer surface of the tool. This generatesa gripping/frictional force between the projections 427 and the toolthat helps maintain the device 400 engaged on the tool. Those ofordinary skill in the art should recognize that the retention force canbe selected as desired or suitable. For example, the force can beselected by selecting, among other things as will be understood by thoseof ordinary skill in the art, the material of the projections 427 inorder to have a selected material compressibility/flexibility and alsofrictional coefficient between the projections 427 and tool, and theamount of dimensional interference between the tool and the projections427, which determines the amount of flexing or deflection necessary toinstall the device 400 on the tool, and thus the opposing compressiveforce. As will be appreciated, the retention force can be selected so asthat the lighting device 400 will not become unintentionally disengagedfrom the tool during operation, but provides a reasonable level of forcefor the user to install and disengage the lighting device 400.

In other embodiments, the projections 427 contain magnetic material. Insuch embodiments, the device 400 may be secured to a magnetic tool 12,at least in part, magnetically. As those of ordinary skill in the artwill understand, the degree of magnetic force between the projections427 and the tool 12 may be selected to be great enough so as tosubstantially prevent unintentional disengagement between the device 400and the tool 12, but at a level that permits intentional disengagementwhen desired.

The lighting devices of the invention provide multiple advantages. Oneadvantage of the light attachment is its size. The light attachment hasa diameter that extends only somewhat beyond the outer periphery of thetool to allow a user to easily manipulate the tool while not hinderingmaneuverability or blocking the user's line of vision. The packagingadvantage is due, in certain embodiments, to the use of pin-shapedbatteries oriented in a generally proximal-distal alignment with thedevice.

Another advantage is that the light attachment is easily attachable to atool and detachable from the tool. As discussed above, the lightattachment can easily slide over a distal end of a tool for engagementwith the tool during use. When a user wants to remove the lightattachment from the tool, the user merely has to apply axial pressure tothe proximal end of the light attachment to disengage the lightattachment. At the same time, unintentional dislodging of the devicefrom the tool is mitigated.

Yet another advantage is that the light attachment simultaneouslyattaches to a tool and illuminates a light source ensuring efficientassembly and use. The light attachment includes attachment means thatare engageable and disengageable with a tool; there are no additionalfasteners required to ensure the device will not automatically becomedisengaged from the tool during use.

In addition, the devices are cordless with a self-contained powersource. The device does not require attachment via an electrical cord toa remote electrical outlet or light source. A cord adds unwieldiness tothe tool, and may require assistance to manipulate. Known corded devicesmay also become hot and burn the user and/or the patient, and possiblyeven cause a fire. The present invention decreases the risk of burningor causing a fire.

A further advantage is that the light attachment of the invention issecurable to the tool at a desired or selected location. This permitsoptimal placement of the device, both from an illumination perspectiveand an operational perspective of the tool.

As may be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the pertinent artbased on the teachings herein, numerous changes and modifications may bemade to the above-described and other embodiments of the presentinvention without departing from its scope as defined in the appendedclaims. Accordingly, it is to be understood that this detaileddescription is to be taken as illustrative and not to be limited to thespecific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and otherembodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appendedclaims. Further, although specific, terms are employed herein, they areused in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes oflimitation.

What is claimed is:
 1. A lighting device, comprising: a housing having aproximal end and a distal end and defining an interior cavity extendingfrom the proximal end to the distal end and forming an opening extendingthrough the housing from the proximal end to the distal end configuredto removably receive therein at least a portion of a tool; at least onelight source disposed substantially at the distal end of the housingthat is adapted and configured to illuminate a field of view; and atleast one protrusion or projection extending into the interior cavityand configured to engage the at least a portion of the tool andremovably secure the lighting device to the tool, and including a firstportion configured to engage the tool and a second portion thatspring-loads or provides a spring force on the first portion when thetool is located in the opening.
 2. A lighting device according to claim1, wherein the first portion defines a tang and/or the second portiondefines a lever arm.
 3. A lighting device as defined in claim 1, whereinthe second portion is flexible, compressible and/or elastomeric.
 4. Alighting device according to claim 1, wherein the at least oneprotrusion or projection extends into the interior cavity at an angle tothe housing toward the distal end.
 5. A lighting device according toclaim 1, wherein the first portion is adapted to generate friction withthe at least a portion of the tool.
 6. A lighting device according toclaim 1, wherein the first portion includes an elastomeric material. 7.A method comprising: installing a lighting device onto a tool, thelighting device comprising: a housing having a proximal end and a distalend and defining an interior cavity extending from the proximal end tothe distal end and forming an opening extending through the housing fromthe proximal end to the distal end configured to removably receivetherein at least a portion of the tool; at least one light sourcedisposed substantially at the distal end of the lighting device that isconfigured to illuminate a field of view; and at least one protrusion orprojection extending into the interior cavity and configured to engagethe at least a portion of the tool and removably secure the lightingdevice to the tool; wherein the at least one protrusion or projection(i) includes a lever arm extending into the interior cavity; (ii)includes a first portion configured to engage the tool and a secondportion that spring-loads or provide a spring force on the first portionwhen the tool is located in the opening; and/or (iii) includes a tangconfigured to engage the at least a portion of the tool and removablysecure the lighting device to the tool; wherein the installing stepincludes: moving the tool and the lighting device relative to each otherand locating the at least a portion of the tool within the opening; andengaging the at least a portion of the tool with the at least oneprotrusion or projection and, in turn, removably securing the lightingdevice to the tool with the at least one protrusion or projection.
 8. Amethod according to claim 7, wherein the at least one protrusion orprojection includes a first limb and a second limb extending at an anglefrom the first limb toward the distal end.
 9. A method according toclaim 7, wherein the at least one protrusion includes an elastomericsleeve extending over or a coating applied to an end portion thereofadapted to generate friction with the at least a portion of the tool.10. A method according to claim 7, further including: engaging the atleast one protrusion or projection so as to disengage the at least oneprotrusion or projection from the tool; and removing the lighting devicefrom the tool.
 11. A method according to claim 10, wherein the lightingdevice further includes a movable portion movable between a firstposition wherein the movable portion does not disengage the at least oneprotrusion or projection from the tool and a second position wherein themovable portion engages the at least one protrusion or projection anddisengages at least one protrusion or projection from the tool; and thestep of engaging the at least one protrusion or projection includesmoving the movable portion from the first position to the secondposition.
 12. A method according to claim 7, wherein the tool is anelectrosurgical instrument.
 13. A lighting device comprising: a housinghaving a proximal end and a distal end and defining an interior cavityor opening extending from the proximal end to the distal end configuredto removably receive therein at least a portion of the tool; at leastone protrusion or projection extending into the interior cavity oropening adapted and configured to engage the at least a portion of thetool and removably secure the lighting device to the tool; at least onelight source disposed substantially at the distal end of the lightingdevice that is adapted and configured to illuminate a field of view; anda movable portion movable between a first position wherein the movableportion does not disengage the at least one protrusion or projectionfrom the tool and a second position, wherein upon movement of themovable portion from the first position to the second position, the atleast one protrusion or projection moves in a direction away from thetool.
 14. A lightning device according to claim 13, wherein the movableportion is engageable by a user.
 15. A lighting device according toclaim 13, wherein in the second position the movable portion is engagedwith the at least one protrusion or projection.
 16. A method comprising:installing a lighting device onto a tool, the lighting devicecomprising: a housing having a proximal end and a distal end anddefining an interior cavity or opening extending from the proximal endto the distal end configured to removably receive therein at least aportion of the tool; at least one protrusion or projection extendinginto the interior cavity or opening adapted and configured to engage theat least a portion of the tool and removably secure the lighting deviceto the tool; at least one light source disposed substantially at thedistal end of the lighting device that is adapted and configured toilluminate a field of view; and a movable portion movable between afirst position wherein the movable portion does not disengage the atleast one protrusion or projection from the tool and a second position,wherein upon movement of the movable portion from the first position tothe second position, the at least one protrusion or projection moves ina direction away from the tool; wherein the installing step includes:moving the tool and the lighting device relative to each other andlocating the at least a portion of the tool within the interior cavityor opening; and engaging the at least a portion of the tool with the atleast one protrusion or projection and, in turn, removably securing thelighting device to the tool with the at least one protrusion orprojection; the method further including moving the movable portion fromthe first position to the second position, whereby the at least oneprotrusion or projection moves in a direction away from the tool; andremoving the lighting device from the tool.
 17. A method according toclaim 16, wherein in the second position the movable portion is engagedwith the at least one protrusion or projection.
 18. A method accordingto claim 16, wherein the step of moving the movable portion includesmoving the movable portion in a distal direction toward the distal end.19. A method according to claim 16, wherein the movable portion isengageable by a user, and the step of moving the movable portionincludes a user engaging the movable portion.
 20. The method accordingto claim 16, wherein the tool is an electrosurgical handheld instrument,and the method includes, prior to the removing step, detaching anelectrosurgical blade from the electrosurgical instrument.
 21. Themethod according to claim 16, wherein the tool is an electrosurgicalhandheld instrument, and the method includes attaching anelectrosurgical blade to the electrosurgical instrument prior to theinstalling step.
 22. The method according to claim 16, wherein the toolis an electrosurgical handheld instrument, and the method includesattaching an electrosurgical blade to the electrosurgical instrument byinserting a proximal end of the electrosurgical blade through a distalend of the interior cavity or opening.
 23. The method according to claim16, wherein the tool is an electrosurgical handheld instrument, and themethod includes detaching an electrosurgical blade from theelectrosurgical instrument; and (a) re-attaching the electrosurgicalblade to the electrosurgical instrument or (b) attaching a secondelectrosurgical blade to the electrosurgical instrument without removingthe lighting device from the electrosurgical instrument.